High Issues to do in Saint Augustine, Florida –

Saint Augustine is a location I’ve desired to go to for a really very long time. The primary time I heard about this metropolis was years in the past whereas I used to be in faculty, it was the place the school began earlier than it moved to Miami Florida. I made a decision I used to be going to take the journey this yr and so I did. I began out looking for rooms for five nights however costs have been including up and I began to marvel if there would even be sufficient for me to do in St. Augustine for five days. So I made a decision to remain for much less days. Effectively to my shock there was loads of issues to do and see on this historic metropolis. On this article I’ve put collectively an inventory of issues you are able to do whereas visiting St. Augustine.

Castillo de San Marcos Nationwide Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos (spanish for St. Marks Fort) is claimed to be the oldest fort of its variety in america. This monument has been opened since 1695, yep that lengthy. It was constructed by the Spaniards to guard Florida. It’s open from 9:00 a.m. by way of 5:00 p.m. every day. When you occur to go when it’s closed like I did you may nonetheless discover the outside, by taking a stroll across the monument, being attentive to the cannons on website, the furnace the place cannons have been heated earlier than being fired or sit down and benefit from the cool ocean breeze. Nevertheless, if you’re inquisitive about what’s inside and wish to study extra in regards to the Castillo de San Marcos, the price to go in is $15 for ages 16 and older. Kids 15 and below are free.

Take a cruise tour

With the cruise excursions you will have choices. There’s ‘Scenic Cruise’ that takes you out sight seeing on a type of double decker boats, this tour final about 90 minutes, you may see locations like Anastasia Island, the lighthouse, the good cross and environment. You should buy drinks and snacks aboard the Scenic Cruise sightseeing excursions. The present costs are $20.75 for adults, $9.75 for youngsters, and $17.50 for seniors.

Then there’s additionally the Black Raven pirate cruises the place you may take the entire household for an journey. The pirate cruises gives actions onboard reminiscent of treasure hunt, jokes, sword fights between the pirates, and extra. In addition they supply a Rum Runner cruise however this one is for adults solely 😉. The treasure hunt cruises are $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for youngsters ages 3-12, $9.95 kids 2 and below, and you may also get the household pack for two adults and a couple of kids at $107.85. The rum runner cruise is $29.95. You have to carry ID for the rum runner cruise, it’s only on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:15 p.m.

Flagler School

Flagler faculty is a should see. The previous resort turned faculty has a spectacular structure, very interesting to the attention. Atleast it was to my eyes 😀. Flagler School is presently a Liberal Arts School positioned in historic downtown St. Agustine. It was previously the Ponce de Leon resort constructed by Henry Flagler in 1888. The resort was visited by well-known people reminiscent of Ernest Hemmingway and John F Kennedy (nicely he was 13 on the time not but president). In 1968 the resort grew to become Flagler School.

Lightner Museum

Are you an Artwork Buff, if that’s the case then the Lightner Museum is a should see. Earlier than it was the Lightner Museum it was the Alcazar Lodge, additionally accomplished in 1888 by Henry Flagler. At first it was to be an extension of Flagler’s different resort the Ponce de Leon, however as a substitute was constructed as an impartial constructing. The resort was closed in 1931 and was purchased by Otto Lightner in 1947, who turned it right into a museum. At this museum you’ll expertise historical past within the type of artwork as you might be taken again centuries by the collections. You can be amazed at what you will discover right here.

Ripley’s Imagine it or not

Get able to discover three tales of the unbelievable at Ripley’s Imagine It or Not in St. Augustine, Florida. Right here you will discover photographs of extraordinary issues and the tales behind them. For instance, the lip disk girl and why it’s performed in sure cultures or Robert Wadlow the tallest man to ever stay.

Ripley’s Imagine It or Not’s historical past goes again so far as 1918. In December of that yr the primary Ripley’s Imagine It or Not cartoon was revealed, then in 1922 Robert Ripley the founder determined to journey around the globe. He traveled by way of international locations reminiscent of Bali, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, and Asia, simply to call a couple of. In 1929 the primary Ripley’s Imagine it or not e book was revealed. Within the Thirties the primary radio present aired. One of many reveals was aired 750 toes underground and one other Underwater, then from the Grand Canyon. He went on to publishing extra books. Later in 1933 the primary odditorium was opened in Chicago containing distinctive artifacts that Ripley collected on his world journeys.

Ripley died in 1949 and the primary Museum was opened in Saint Augustine the next yr on the Fort Warden which was previously a resort.

The Previous Jail

Strive to not let the 6ft 6 inches tall 300lbs sheriff Joe Perry catch you on the The previous jail in St. Augustine. The inmates (not likely) gives you a tour of the jail constructed by Henry Flagler. It is possible for you to hear the story behind the jail that Flagler constructed to appear to be a resort and guests would go there knocking on the door hoping to get a room for the night time, solely to seek out out that it’s not the kind of resort they have been hoping for. It is possible for you to to see the cells and even wax photographs of prisoners contained in the cells, in addition to weapons used throughout that point.

Potter’s Wax Museum

In 1949 George E. Potter made the choice to open America’s very first wax museum in St. Augustine. The thought behind the museum was to show historical past. 90% of the figures are from Potter’s authentic assortment. The figures are so life-like it was a bit spooky. lol. One can find previous presidents and their wives, in addition to well-known composers, Michael Jordan, Martin Luther and even some ghastly ones just like the Frankenstein Monster. The museum is open day by day from 9 a.m. to five p.m. Tickets are $14.16 and youngsters 4-12 $8.08, kids below 4 are free.

Whetstone Chocolate Tour

Love chocolate or simply curious what goes into making it? Effectively that is the occasion for you. Henry and Esther Whetstone first began out within the Ice cream enterprise after which later the chocolate enterprise. Throughout this tour you’ll take pleasure in strolling by way of the manufacturing facility and studying about Whetstone’s historical past, whilst you nibble on samples. Excursions can be found day by day between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and three:30 p.m. at totally different intervals and is $8.95 for adults, $6.50 for youngsters 5-17, and free for youngsters below 5.

Gator Bob’s Buying and selling Publish

Inside Gator Bob’s you will discover souvenirs, items, and clothes, however there’s extra to it than that. Gator Bob’s additionally has a deli inside and the Previous St. Augustine Museum. As you tour the Previous St. Augustine Museum, see issues like classic automobiles, popcorn machine, and previous flicker motion pictures.

Watch a Magic Present

Expertise magic in historic St. Augustine by stopping in at one of many magic reveals. Simply on the nook of Hypolita and St. George road you will discover Theatre Magic. the price is $10 per particular person and the present final half-hour. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Fountain of Youth

The Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth is an archeological park in Saint Augustine that showcases America’s colonial historical past. No there is no such thing as a miracle water that may make you keep younger perpetually, however there are a couple of fountains within the park and particularly Ponce de Leon’s Spring of Everlasting Hope the place you may take a sip. On the Fountain of Youth you will discover details about the Timicuan Indians that occupied the realm and there lifestyle. See an precise burying floor, go inside huts, and even take a step inside a church. Additionally, you will discover stunning Indian peacocks (they scream loads). There are shows just like the blacksmith presentation, the planetarium, and the cannon present. You can too climb the remark tower or take a stroll on the boardwalk whereas there.

The Saint Augustine Distillery

Positioned on the ice plant on Riberia road the St. Augustine Distillery gives excursions so you may see how the liquors are made, find out about several types of liquors and even learn to make particular cocktails. Excursions can be found every day from 10:30 a.m. to five:30 p.m. and they’re free.

Alligator Farm

Alligator farm is without doubt one of the oldest points of interest in St. Augustine. The park was based in 1893. Right here it is possible for you to to view totally different species of crocodiles however not solely that, there are additionally different animals there like birds, lemurs and snakes. You can too go ziplining by way of the park and revel in wildlife reveals just like the scales and tails reptile present. The tickets are $28.99 for adults and $17.99 for youngsters 3-11.

Ghost Excursions

There are such a lot of to select from. Whereas going to the totally different points of interest to purchase entry tickets, one factor most of them supply is a ghost tour package deal. No marvel as a result of it’s consider that plenty of the buildings in St. Augustine are haunted. Be afraid, very afraid as a tour information takes you on a nightmarish tour of the cities cemeteries and let you know ghost tales in regards to the metropolis 😱. There are excursions out there for all ages and a few for adults solely.

Go to the Seashores

Which one ought to I am going to? 🤔 there are such a lot of to select from. There’s loads of seaside to go round in St. Augustine however evidently Vilano seaside is the most well-liked or busier. There’s a pier there, a marina, and eating places. You’ll be able to take your canine for a stroll, watch the sundown, take a ship tour, or go fishing. Nevertheless, if you’re on the lookout for someplace a bit extra laid again there’s North Seaside , simply north of Vilano seaside. Don’t overlook your surfboard you possibly capable of catch a wave or two. There’s free parking out there for the seaside in addition to paid parking.

Take a Guided Trolley Tour

There are two forms of trolley excursions that that I’ve seen in St. Augustine. There’s the Previous City Trolley and the Purple Prepare Excursions. The Previous City Trolley appears to the be hottest of the 2. The excursions are guided so the motive force gives you a background on the totally different points of interest in addition to town. It is possible for you to to hop on and off the excursions at no matter cease you select. The stops are numbered and you’ll obtain a map that provides you what’s on the totally different stops.

Regardless that the resort the place I stayed had an indication that confirmed they bought the Purple Prepare Excursions within the foyer I opted for the Previous City Trolley excursions once I came upon they provided a shuttle that picks you up and drops you again to the resort. You get reductions on the entry payment to sure points of interest while you purchase your ticket from the trolley ticket boots.

Strolling Tour

You can too do your personal strolling tour alongside Avenida Mendez or down the again streets like Saint George road, or Aviles Avenue which is claimed to be the oldest road within the US. You’ll be able to see cool issues like a lonely musician enjoying her guitar, an artist drawing a portray, or a man with snakes.

Carriage Journey

So possibly you don’t desire a trolley tour or perhaps a strolling tour, however how a couple of horse carriage tour round city. It is possible for you to to loosen up and take within the metropolis views whereas the coachman offers you a guided tour of town. These excursions are primarily out there within the evenings. You’ll be able to select from shared rides, to personal ones, or rides for particular events.

Go to the Dolphin Place

Swim with dolphins at Marine Land dolphin journey. You’ll be able to go for the swim journey the place you maintain on to the dolphin’s flippers whereas they take you for a journey, or the royal swim by which the dolphin will elevate you up by pushing from the only real of your toes, or simply have an encounter with the dolphins by interacting with them if you’re not a swimmer.

Water Sports activities

That is Florida and right here the ocean is your enjoying discipline. There are fairly a couple of locations in St. Augustine that provides boat , kayak, and jetski leases. I’ve additionally seen surfers, having a very good time on the waves. Parasailing is one other exercise that you could expertise as nicely.

Colonial Quarters

Be entertained with an interactive expertise as you find out about historical past. It is possible for you to to see a blacksmith demonstration, see a cannon fired and climb a 35ft watch tower the place you may overlook Castillo de San Marco and extra of downtown St. Augustine.

Pirate and Treasure Museum

On the pirate treasure museum it is possible for you to to watch and find out about treasures from the Caribbean, really feel like you might be on an precise pirate ship, really feel the vibration as you hear the sounds of cannons hitting your ship, and hunt to seek out treasures hidden away in drawers. It’s an awesome expertise for the entire household. The children will particularly love enjoying with the interactive cannon. It’s positioned simply throughout the road from the Castillo de San Marcos. The price for adults is $18.99, $9.99 for youngsters 5-12, and $15.99 for seniors.

World Golf Corridor of Fame and Museum

Positioned in World Golf Village, between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, the world golf corridor of fame is the place to be if you’re enthusiastic about studying one thing in regards to the world of golf or if you’re already a fan. Tickets are $20.95 for adults, kids 5-12 $5.00, seniors, Florida residents, and army personnel $19.95. College students 13 and over with correct id $10.00. There’s an Imax theatre, guests can strive their hand at a gap in problem. Whereas there additionally, you will be capable to see trophies, and golf sticks that have been used, study in regards to the corridor of famers, and climb the tower.

Buying on the Retailers

Get discounted costs on identify manufacturers reminiscent of Coach, Michael Kors, Nike, Carters, Coach, and Clarks on the St. Augustine Retailers. They’re positioned simply off the I-95. Sadly those on the east aspect of the I-95 are presently closed aside from Loft. A consultant at Loft stated that the Retailers on that aspect have been closed for renovation of the constructing.

Anastasia State Park

Benefit from the stunning white sand seaside at Anastasia State Park. Watch as boaters dock alongside the shore and revel in all that’s right here to do. Beaching shouldn’t be the one factor you are able to do right here although, you may also hen watch, camp in any of the 139 camps out there, go mountaineering, journey a motorbike alongside the 4 miles of seaside. Hire a kayak or canoe from contained in the park and get to paddling. There’s simply a lot you are able to do right here.

Torture Museum

Whereas in St. Augustine you may additionally wish to try the torture museum, nicely that’s if you’re into that kind of stuff. See how folks have been tortured in occasions previous. Study skinning, witch interrogation, hand torture, neck entice, and extra.

Saint Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

I virtually forgot this one and the way may I. The lighthouse is a really important a part of Florida’s historical past. Positioned on Anastasia Island, the lighthouse was constructed across the similar time because the Castillo de San Marcos to be careful for enemy ships. Some of the in style occasions on the St. Augustine lighthouse is to climb the 219 stairs to the highest of the tower, nevertheless, the tower is presently below restoration. Don’t fear there are different issues there to do just like the ghost tour, the maritime hammock scavenger hunt, and having fun with the day by day demos.

Plaza de la Constitucion

Plaza de la Constitucion or Metropolis Plaza is a park positioned in downtown St. Augstine, simply throughout the road from the Bridge of Lions and the Authorities Home to the west. As you stroll by way of the park you’ll discover previous cannons and examine historic occasions. The park has been part of St. Augustine since 1573. Traditionally this was the place occasions reminiscent of public auctions the place held. In the present day it’s the place public occasions are held like the general public market and concert events, however it’s additionally an awesome place to loosen up and take some images.

I attempted to place collectively as a lot actions to do in St. Augustine and I’m positive there are some issues lacking from this checklist. There are different museums to go to in Saint Augustine just like the Previous College, the Oldest Home and even the Civil Rights memorial website. At Previous City, cease primary for the Previous City Trolley there are fairly a couple of locations to go to, just like the Oldest Retailer museum, the Spice and Tea alternate and another locations that I discussed above.

A lot of the actions are positioned in downtown Saint Augustine. The parking there’s paid parking and a few might be fairly dear, so here’s a tip strive on the lookout for a spot to park on the again streets as a substitute of on the principle.

I do know you should have a good time visiting this stunning metropolis. Don’t hesitate to put in writing within the feedback a few of your experiences that you’ve in Saint Augustine.